Ashwin Opens Up On Emotional Rajkot Test: From 500th Wicket High to Family Emergency
The Rajkot Test against England in February 2024 proved to be a rollercoaster of emotions for veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. What should have been a moment of celebration quickly turned into a deeply personal challenge.
On Day 2 of the third Test, Ashwin etched his name into history by dismissing Zak Crawley to claim his 500th Test wicket, becoming only the second Indian after Anil Kumble to reach the milestone. The cricketing world lauded the achievement, but Ashwin was struck by an eerie silence from those closest to him.
“I had taken 500 wickets at that time in Tests. But I didn’t get a call from my mother, father, or wife. I was replying to messages from others, but there was no word from my family,” Ashwin shared during the launch of Chennai Super Kings’ documentary series.
Initially thinking they were giving him space, Ashwin attempted to reach out but received no response. Eventually, he got a call from his wife at the hotel, informing him of a family medical emergency. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Ashwin made immediate plans to leave Rajkot.
However, logistical issues delayed his travel. “There was no flight immediately, and I was in Rajkot. The match was still in the balance,” he said. Despite Ben Duckett’s century giving England some momentum, Ashwin received full support from team management.
“Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid immediately asked me to go,” he said. “When the captain and coach are so supportive, I felt like I wanted to come back. I play for people who value me.”
Ashwin missed Day 3 but returned on Day 4 to a roaring Rajkot crowd. He went on to dismiss Tom Hartley in the fourth innings as India cruised to a historic 434-run win—their biggest Test victory margin ever.
In December 2024, Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket, ending a decorated Test career with 537 wickets—second only to Kumble in India’s history. His Rajkot Test performance will be remembered not just for the records, but for the immense personal strength and commitment he displayed amidst adversity.
